DOMESTIC CRICKET
Prithvi Shaw wants to move out of Mumbai. © BCCI
Prithvi Shaw has sought a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA). The 25-year-old former India opener has informed the association that he has received offers from three to four states and is currently considering his options.
“He has just sent us a letter seeking NOC. We have informed the Apex Council members. We will issue the NOC soon,” Abhay Hadap, the secretary of the MCA, told Cricbuzz. Shaw has not played for Mumbai since December 24.
“At this juncture of my career, I have been presented with a promising opportunity to play professional cricket under another State Association, which I believe, will further contribute to the growth and development as a cricketer. In light of this, I kindly request you to issue me a No Objection Certificate (NOC) that will enable me to officially represent the new state association in the upcoming domestic season,” Shaw said in his letter to the MCA.
Widely regarded as a precocious talent, Shaw stormed into international cricket with a century on debut in 2018 as a teenager. However, he has since failed to live up to his early promise. In Mumbai cricket circles, he is often likened to Vinod Kambli – another gifted player whose career was derailed by indiscipline.
Shaw has featured in only five Tests, six ODIs, and one T20 International for India before losing his way in 2021. Last year, he was dropped from the Mumbai Ranji team on fitness grounds. He also could not land an IPL contract, having remained unsold in the auction.
“Please be assured that this decision has been made after careful consideration, and with utmost respect for the MCA. I remain ever grateful to the association for the guidance and platform provided over the years,” Shaw wrote in his letter to the MCA.
Shaw played 32 first-class matches for Mumbai, scoring 2,648 runs at an average of 49.03, including seven centuries and ten half-centuries. He has also featured in 29 List A games for the state side.
MCA says NOC granted to Shaw
On Monday (June 23) evening, the MCA said it granted the NOC to Shaw. “Prithvi Shaw has been an exceptional talent and has contributed significantly to Mumbai cricket. We respect his decision and wish him the very best in his future endeavours,” MCA secretary Hadap said.
The MCA added in its statement, “MCA acknowledges and appreciates Prithvi’s contributions over the years and extends best wishes for his continued success.”
** Updated after NOC was issued
© Cricbuzz
